21. The Duel of Magic

Pulling himself through the hidden hole in his cell, Severian finds himself in a subterranean labyrinth.  He detects the presence of the alien creature that Hethor released into the Antechamber of the House Absolute. 

Severian navigates the underground corridors by the light of the Claw and uncovers a ladder.  He scales it to daylight and emerges beyond the perimeter of the jungle village.  Intent on recovering Little Severian and Terminus Est, Severian follows a nearby river to the town. 

The men of the village prepare a firelit ceremony featuring Severian’s boy and sword.  A painted man attempts to pull Severian from his holding cell but finds that he is missing.  To the surprise of the gathered crowd, Severian announces himself from the shadows.